08 Apr 2024 | 05:38 AM UTC
Maldives: Opposition party to hold rally in Male evening of April 8
Opposition party to gather at Ghiyasuddin International School in Male, Maldives, evening of April 8. Increased security likely.
The People's National Front (PNF) has called for an inaugural rally at Ghiyasuddin International School in Male the evening of April 8 to mark its formation as a new opposition party. Former President Abdullah Yameen currently leads the party, having recently split from the Progressive Party of the Maldives (PPM), which is part of the incumbent People's National Congress (PNC) coalition government. Hundreds of people could join the event.
Authorities will likely increase security at Ghiyasuddin International School and surrounding areas. Localized transport disruptions are possible near the venue, especially if supporters hold marches or motorcades toward the site. The event is likely to be peaceful, but clashes between police and participants cannot be ruled out.
Avoid the rally as a precaution. Plan for possible travel delays in the affected area evening of April 8. If clashes break out nearby, immediately leave the area and seek shelter at a secure, non-government building. Heed all security and traffic advisories.
In the 2023 presidential election, the People's National Congress (PNC) candidate Mohamed Muizzu defeated incumbent Maldivian Democratic Party's (MDP) Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. However, the post-election period has been marked by political tensions and power struggles within the ruling coalition, as well as an impeachment attempt by the main opposition MDP. Meanwhile, PNF leader Yameen is currently under house arrest, having been transferred from prison in October 2023 at the request of the newly elected President Mohamed Muizzu. Yameen is serving an 11-year jail term following a conviction for bribery and money laundering during his presidency from 2013 to 2018.
